AARC Vehicle Dismantling Procedures 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When removing a catalytic converter during vehicle dismantling, what is the primary environmental concern?
- Release of precious metals into soil
- Emission of stored hydrocarbons and residual exhaust gases (Correct answer)
- Leakage of engine coolant
- Discharge of brake fluid
Correct answer: Emission of stored hydrocarbons and residual exhaust gases
Catalytic converters can retain residual exhaust gases including hydrocarbons that may be released during cutting or removal.
Question 2: Which tool is most appropriate for safely removing an airbag module from a steering wheel?
- Standard flathead screwdriver
- Torx or specialty airbag removal tool (Correct answer)
- Pneumatic impact wrench
- Pry bar
Correct answer: Torx or specialty airbag removal tool
Airbag modules require specialty Torx or manufacturer-specific tools to prevent accidental deployment during removal.
Question 3: During hybrid vehicle dismantling, what color coding typically identifies high-voltage cables?
- Red
- Blue
- Orange (Correct answer)
- Yellow
Correct answer: Orange
Industry standard and SAE J1673 designate orange as the color for high-voltage wiring in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Question 4: What is the correct sequence when dismantling a vehicle with a manual transmission?
- Remove transmission first, then drain fluids
- Drain all fluids before removing any drivetrain components (Correct answer)
- Remove engine before draining coolant
- Disconnect battery last
Correct answer: Drain all fluids before removing any drivetrain components
All fluids must be drained prior to drivetrain component removal to prevent spills and environmental contamination.
Question 5: A recycler is stripping a late-model vehicle with an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS). What special step is required before removing the windshield?
- Disable the ABS module
- Document camera calibration data and disconnect ADAS power (Correct answer)
- Remove the airbag sensors first
- Flush the transmission fluid
Correct answer: Document camera calibration data and disconnect ADAS power
ADAS cameras mounted to the windshield must have power disconnected and calibration data documented to preserve component resale value.
Question 6: Which federal regulation governs the proper handling and disposal of used motor oil generated during vehicle dismantling?
- RCRA Used Oil Management Standards (40 CFR Part 279) (Correct answer)
- OSHA Hazard Communication Standard
- DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations
- Clean Air Act Section 112
Correct answer: RCRA Used Oil Management Standards (40 CFR Part 279)
40 CFR Part 279 under RCRA establishes standards for used oil generators, transporters, and processors including auto recyclers.
Question 7: When cutting body panels with a plasma cutter during dismantling, what personal protective equipment is mandatory?
- Safety glasses and gloves only
- Full face shield, leather gloves, and flame-resistant clothing (Correct answer)
- Hard hat and steel-toed boots only
- Hearing protection and safety glasses
Correct answer: Full face shield, leather gloves, and flame-resistant clothing
Plasma cutting generates intense UV light, sparks, and molten metal requiring full face protection, leather gloves, and flame-resistant clothing.
When removing a catalytic converter during vehicle dismantling, what is the primary environmental concern?